Penguins’ Youth Movement on Hold - But the Future’s Still Bright in Pittsburgh
The Pittsburgh Penguins weren’t supposed to be here-not in second place in the Metropolitan Division, not in the thick of the playoff hunt with 26 games to go, and certainly not with a roster that many expected to be in transition. But here they are, defying expectations and forcing a pause on what was supposed to be a full-on youth movement.
Heading into the season, names like Rutger McGroarty, Ville Koivunen, and Avery Hayes were penciled in as potential regulars, part of a rebuild that looked inevitable. Instead, the Penguins are winning now, and the kids-many of whom still need time to marinate-are watching from the wings.
Pittsburgh’s Pipeline is Loaded, Even if the NHL Ice Time Isn’t
General manager Kyle Dubas has been deliberate about injecting youth into the organization, and that effort is starting to bear fruit-even if only a few rookies are making consistent NHL contributions right now. Of the 12 rookies on the roster this season, only Ben Kindel and Arturs Silovs are playing regular roles. The rest are waiting, developing, and-if Hayes is any indication-getting ready to make an impact when their number is called.
Let’s talk about Hayes. The 23-year-old turned heads in training camp and carried that momentum into the AHL season, where he’s been a standout for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.
He was named AHL Player of the Week earlier this month, and on February 4, he netted the go-ahead goal in a 4-1 win over the Hershey Bears. Through 33 AHL games, he’s put up 16 goals and 10 assists-numbers that speak to his offensive instincts and two-way game.
Then came his NHL debut on February 5 against the Buffalo Sabres-and what a debut it was. Two goals, a 5-2 Penguins win, and a performance that showcased his speed, hockey IQ, and ability to find soft spots in the defense.
His second goal, set up by a sharp pass from Anthony Mantha, was a perfect example of what he brings to the table: quick release, great positioning, and confidence with the puck. Hayes might not be a full-time NHLer yet, but he’s made a strong case for more looks down the stretch.
McGroarty and Koivunen Still Developing, But the Tools Are There
Rutger McGroarty was another young player the Penguins had high hopes for this season. While he hasn’t lit up the scoresheet-two goals and three assists in 20 NHL games-he’s been quietly solid.
More importantly, he’s showing real growth in the AHL. Through 11 games with Wilkes-Barre, he’s posted four goals and ten assists, proving he can drive offense and contribute when given the chance.
At 21, he’s still refining his game, but the upside is clear.
Ville Koivunen, meanwhile, has shown flashes but isn’t quite NHL-ready. Skating remains an area for improvement, and injuries have slowed his progress.
In 27 games with Pittsburgh, he’s registered two goals and three assists-respectable numbers for a young player finding his footing. Like McGroarty, Koivunen has been trending in the right direction in the AHL, and the Penguins still see him as a future weapon.
Kindel Leading the Charge for the Next Generation
While some prospects are still finding their rhythm, Ben Kindel is already making waves. Drafted 11th overall last year, the 18-year-old has jumped right into the NHL and held his own.
Through 53 games, he’s tallied 14 goals and 27 points-numbers that suggest he’s not just surviving, but thriving. Kindel’s poise, offensive instincts, and ability to play in all situations have made him a fixture in Pittsburgh’s top six, and he’s only scratching the surface of what he can become.
Looking Ahead: The Kids Will Get Their Shot
The Penguins’ surprising success this season has complicated the timeline for their young talent. With a deep forward group-especially when healthy-there simply hasn’t been much room to rotate in the next wave of prospects.
But that doesn’t mean the plan has changed. Dubas has built a strong foundation in Wilkes-Barre, and it’s only a matter of time before more of those players graduate to the NHL.
The key now is patience. The talent is there.
The development is happening. And if Pittsburgh can continue balancing its current success with long-term planning, the organization may have found the ideal formula: compete now, while quietly building for what’s next.
In a season that was supposed to be about transition, the Penguins have found stability-and maybe even a glimpse of a bright future.